Dahlya

Certified Tutor

My interest in science was first sparked as a young child. Being the youngest sibling in my family, I often parroted the actions of my older brother, who had an immense love of science. My aunt Net who was a retired Doctor of Nursing Practice would mail us books and toys that were centered around science and medicine; for my brother she would send trinkets centered around astrology and paleontology, but for me everything was about biology. At this age my curiosity was geared primarily towards animals. I would spend my weekends, the time when my mother permitted me television freely, glued to Animal Planet. While my mother and father were not particularly fascinated with the lizards, frogs, and insects that I would habitually gift to them, they always have supported and fed my love of science- Whether it be by simply sitting with me while I did my homework, or listening to my tirades on animal rights and environmental problems.
Over the years my focus gradually shifted to medicine. During my last year of high school, I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), which can be classified as both an endocrine and gynecological disorder. As my doctor began to describe what PCOS was to me, I began to make connections in my mind. Terms like feedback loops, hypothyroidism, and oxytocin were things I'd read and learned about, and that fact excited me. I spent the spring of my senior year volunteering at Winnie Palmer's Hospital for Women and Babies in the triage unit. While our duties were rather minuscule, from cleaning rooms to stocking medical supply carts, I loved having the opportunity to be in that environment. Being able to watch the doctors work and learn about the inner workings of the triage unit really inspired me to focus on my dream.
This dream has fostered my passion and dedication towards achieving my bachelors of science degree from Howard University and one day receiving an acceptance letter from Stanford School of Medicine. I hope that one day I can make a difference in the world of women's health.